On May 4, 2025, Israel Ben Gurion Airport, the nation’s primary international gateway, faced a shocking disruption when a ballistic missile fired by Yemen’s Houthi rebels struck near its perimeter, injuring eight people and halting flights for nearly an hour. The attack, which left a crater in an orchard and sent plumes of smoke into the air, caused panic among passengers, many of whom scrambled to safe rooms as sirens blared. This latest incident underscores the escalating tensions in the region, with the Iran-backed Houthis claiming responsibility and boldly declaring the airport “unsafe for air travel.” As travelers and airlines grapple with the fallout, the event raises questions about the security of one of the Middle East’s busiest hubs.
A Morning of Mayhem at Israel Ben Gurion Airport
The missile hit at approximately 9:30 AM local time, catching both Israeli and U.S. defense systems off guard. Despite attempts by Israel’s Arrow system and the U.S.-operated THAAD to intercept the projectile, it landed near a main access road, scattering debris and forcing authorities to block entry points. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) confirmed the failure to intercept, sparking an investigation into whether human error or technical issues were to blame. Udi Bar Oz, head of Ben Gurion Airport, reported that operations resumed within 30 minutes, but the damage was done. Passengers described scenes of chaos, with some running for cover as smoke rose near Terminal 3.
| Impact of the Missile Strike | Details |
|---|---|
| Injuries | 8 people lightly to moderately wounded |
| Flight Disruptions | Grounded for ~1 hour; multiple cancellations |
| Defense Systems | Arrow and THAAD failed to intercept |
| Houthi Claim | Hypersonic ballistic missile used |
Why the Houthis Targeted Israel Ben Gurion Airport
The Houthis, who control large parts of Yemen, have intensified attacks on Israel since the Gaza conflict began in October 2023, claiming solidarity with Palestinians. Their military spokesperson, Yahya Saree, called the strike a response to Israel’s “genocide” in Gaza, vowing more attacks until the war ends. The group’s alleged use of a “hypersonic ballistic missile” capable of evading radar has raised alarms, though Israeli officials downplayed its uniqueness, noting similar missiles were intercepted before. This marks the first time the Houthis successfully hit near Ben Gurion, a symbolic target as Israel’s main aviation hub. The attack came hours before Israeli ministers were set to vote on escalating military operations in Gaza, adding a layer of geopolitical complexity.
Airlines React: Flights Halted, Travelers Stranded
The ripple effects were immediate. Major airlines, including Lufthansa, Air France, Delta, and Wizz Air, canceled flights to Tel Aviv, with some suspensions lasting until May 6. Air Europa scrapped its Madrid-Tel Aviv route, and an Air India flight diverted while nearing Jordan. The cancellations have boosted shares of Israeli carriers like El Al, as foreign airlines hesitate to resume service. Travelers faced long delays, with many expressing frustration online. “I was about to board when sirens went off,” tweeted one passenger. “Now I’m stuck with no clear answers.” The Israel Airports Authority insists operations are back to normal, but the psychological impact lingers, with Houthi warnings deterring some carriers.
Israel’s Response and Regional Tensions
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu vowed a strong retaliation, stating, “We attacked in the past, we will attack in the future.” Defense Minister Israel Katz echoed this, promising to hit back “sevenfold.” For now, Israel relies on U.S.-led strikes against Houthi targets in Yemen, but the missile’s success exposes vulnerabilities in its defense systems. The IDF reported over two dozen Houthi missile and drone attacks in recent weeks, most intercepted. The strike’s timing, amid plans to expand Gaza operations, suggests the Houthis aim to disrupt Israel’s strategic moves. Meanwhile, U.S. President Donald Trump’s March order for large-scale strikes on Houthi sites has failed to deter the group, complicating the regional chessboard.
What’s Next for Travelers and Security?
For those planning to fly through Israel Ben Gurion Airport, uncertainty looms. Airlines are monitoring the situation, with some resuming limited flights while others remain cautious. The airport’s quick reopening shows resilience, but the Houthi threat persists. Travelers are advised to check with carriers for updates and arrive early to navigate potential security delays. On a broader scale, the incident highlights the challenges of securing civilian infrastructure in a volatile region. As Israel weighs its response, the world watches, knowing each move could escalate an already tense situation. For now, the skies above Tel Aviv remain open but uneasy, a testament to the delicate balance between normalcy and conflict.